If you are planning to apply for Canada Permanent Residency (PR), there is one step you simply cannot skip — Biometrics.
Many applicants assume that if they have already given biometrics for a study visa, visitor visa, spouse open work permit, or any temporary visa in the last 10 years, they do not need to give it again.
- That assumption is wrong.
Even if your previous biometrics are still valid, you must give biometrics again for a Canada PR application.
Let’s understand this clearly and go through the entire PR process step by step so you don’t miss anything.
1. Is Biometrics Mandatory for Canada PR?
Yes. Biometrics is mandatory.
It is not optional
It is not skippable
It is a required step after PR application submission
You must pay the biometric fee ($85 per person)
Even if:
You gave biometrics in 2020
You gave biometrics for a study visa
You gave biometrics for visitor visa
You gave biometrics for work permit
You will still need to give biometrics again for PR.
This requirement is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Real Mistake People Make
Recently, we handled a case where:
The applicant received a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
He assumed biometrics were not required
He did not inform his consultant
He did not book an appointment
This small mistake could have led to serious consequences for the PR application.
In PR cases, sometimes there is no second chance.
3. Complete Canada PR Process (Step-by-Step)
Let’s break down the entire PR process clearly so you understand where biometrics comes in.
Step 1: English Language Test
You must take an approved English test such as:
IELTS (General Training)
CELPIP (General)
PTE Core
This is mandatory for Express Entry.
Step 2: Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your highest education is outside Canada, you need an ECA.
If your highest degree is completed in Canada, you do not need ECA.
Step 3: Create Express Entry Profile
You create a profile under the Express Entry system.
This is called an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Important:
This is NOT the PR application.
You are just entering the pool.
There are lakhs of people in the pool.
Step 4: Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score meets the cutoff in a draw, you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply).
After ITA:
You get 60 days to submit your full PR application.
Now you upload all documents.
Step 5: Application Submission & Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
Once submitted:
You receive AOR (Acknowledgment of Receipt)
This confirms IRCC has received your application
Step 6: Biometrics (Mandatory Step)
After submission, you receive:
Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
Now you must:
Pay biometric fee (if not already paid)
Book appointment
Give biometrics
4. Where to Give Biometrics?
If You Are Outside Canada
Book appointment
Visit center
Give fingerprints and photo
If You Are Inside Canada
Not all Service Canada offices offer biometrics
Appointment is mandatory
Special IRCC officers handle biometrics
5. What Happens After Biometrics?
After biometrics:
1. Background Review Begins
Officer reviews your file.
2. Possible ADR or PFL
You may receive:
ADR (Additional Document Request)
PFL (Procedural Fairness Letter)
These are not mandatory steps.
You usually get around 10 days to respond.
6. Final Stage – Portal or Passport Request
If approved:
If You Are Inside Canada
Receive Portal 1 email
Confirm details
Upload photo
Provide address
Receive eCOPR
PR card is mailed
If You Are Outside Canada
Receive Passport Request (PPR)
Submit passport for visa stamping
Travel to Canada
Receive COPR at port of entry
PR card is mailed
7. Important: Don’t Assume. Discuss.
Many applicants:
Know 80–90% of the process
Assume they know everything
Skip small but crucial steps
But immigration is not just about rules.
It’s about:
Experience
Practical knowledge
Handling hundreds of cases
Learning from past refusals
Even a small mistake like skipping biometrics can cost you your PR.
8. Why You Should Communicate with Your Consultant
If you hire a consultant:
Share all letters
Share all IRCC emails
Do not assume
Do not hide updates
Keep ego aside
You have handled your application once.
Professionals have handled hundreds.
That 5–10% extra experience matters a lot in PR.
Final Conclusion
✔ Biometrics is mandatory for Canada PR
✔ It must be given even if previously submitted
✔ It happens after application submission
✔ Do not ignore the Biometric Instruction Letter
✔ Always communicate with your consultant
A simple missed step can lead to major consequences.
If you are planning your Canada PR and want proper guidance to avoid such mistakes, make sure you understand the entire process before applying.
If you want help with:
Express Entry profile creation
CRS score calculation
ITA filing
PNP options like Ontario International Student Stream
Plan carefully and avoid unnecessary risks.
Because when it comes to PR — every step matters.